Trim component with concealed indicium

ABSTRACT

A component of an actuatable apparatus includes a substrate having an external surface defining a selected area, an illumination source actuatable between an illuminated state and a non-illuminated state, and an opaque indicia coating applied over the selected area. The illumination source is positioned behind the selected area. A portion of the opaque indicia coating defines a pattern having a greater light transmissivity than the portion of the opaque indicia coating not comprising the pattern. The pattern is invisible when the illumination source is in the non-illuminated state, and visible when the illumination source is in the illuminated state and transmits light through the pattern.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.11/926,731, filed Oct. 29, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 11/161,501, filed Aug. 5, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No.7,350,949, issued Apr. 1, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 60/593,677, filed Feb. 4, 2005, andwhich are incorporated herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates generally to a visual display. In one aspect, theinvention relates to a display having indicia or other markings that arevisually discernable only when an illumination source of the display isin an illuminated state. The display can be integrated into a variety ofobjects, including vehicular trim components.

2. Description of the Related Art

Automobiles comprise several types of decorative and functionalvehicular trim components that are mounted to an exterior or interiorsurface of the automobile. Examples of external trim components include,but are not limited to, spoilers, door handles, license plate frames,and various bars, such as a lighting bar above the license plate and abar for mounting a center high mount stop light (CHMSL). Some of thesecomponents include indicia or other visual markings. The visual markingscan be static, such as decorative markings that customize the appearanceof the vehicle or indicia to communicate information, such as the makeor model of the vehicle (known as vehicle badging), to an observer.Other visual markings are dynamic or interactive, such as turn signalindicators and brake lights that illuminate to communicate an intendedaction of the driver. Another example of a dynamic visual marking is akeypad of a keyless entry system. Typically, the keypad is mounted on adoor panel or a door handle and has a plurality of individual keys withnumbers or letters thereon so that a user can depress the keys in apredetermined sequence to unlock the door of the vehicle.

Unfortunately, some of the visual markings, such as turn signalindicators, keypads, and controls on the interior of the vehicle (e.g.,cruise control, radio, and climate controls) do not contributepositively to the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle. Even when thesevisual markings are not illuminated while not in use, thenon-illuminated marking is viewable by an observer. Furthermore, somevisual markings that are not used at all times but are always visuallydiscernable can actually distract a driver. It is therefore desirablefor these visual markings to be viewable only when they are employed.Additionally, the appearance of static visual markings, such asdecorative markings, vehicle make/model indicia, and displays on theinterior of the vehicle (e.g., instrument panel displays), can be draband lackluster and, therefore, fail to create a selected appearance orfail to attract sufficient attention to the visual markings. In thelatter case, the vehicle manufacturer advantageously utilizes vehiclebadging to not only identify the make and model of the vehicle but alsoas an advertising medium. A more visually captivating vehicle badgingwould be a more effective promotional tool. It is therefore desirablefor a vehicular component to have visually alluring indicia or othermarkings.

Additionally, numerous items other than vehicular trim components haveunexciting displays and controls and, therefore, suffer from similardeficiencies. Examples of such objects include household appliances,audio and video equipment, and signs. In today's competitive markets,the visual appearance of a product or a display associated with aproduct or a business can be a significant factor in a customer'spurchase decision, and a stimulating visual appearance that sets oneproduct or display apart from others can positively influence thecustomer in his or her purchase decision.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A component of an actuatable apparatus includes a substrate having anexternal surface defining a selected area, an illumination sourceactuatable between an illuminated state and a non-illuminated state, andan opaque indicia coating applied over the selected area. Theillumination source is positioned behind the selected area. A portion ofthe opaque indicia coating defines a pattern having a greater lighttransmissivity than the portion of the opaque indicia coating notcomprising the pattern. The pattern is invisible when the illuminationsource is in the non-illuminated state, and visible when theillumination source is in the illuminated state and transmits lightthrough the pattern.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle having an external trimcomponent according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the external trim component ofFIG. 1 with a concealed indicium of the external trim component in anon-illuminated state.

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the external trim component ofFIG. 1 showing the indicium configured as a logo in an illuminatedstate.

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the external trim component ofFIG. 1 showing the indicium configured as a turn signal in anilluminated state.

FIG. 5 is an exploded, perspective view of the external trim componentof FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is an exploded, perspective view from a rearward direction of theexternal trim component of FIGS. 1-4 showing a mask inside the externaltrim component.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6A-6A of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a vehicle having an alternativeembodiment of an external trim component.

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the alternative embodiment of theexternal trim component of FIG. 7 with a concealed indicium in anon-illuminated state.

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the alternative embodiment of theexternal trim component of FIG. 7 with the indicium configured as a logoin an illuminated state.

FIG. 10 is an exploded, perspective view of the alternative embodimentof the external trim component of FIGS. 7-9.

FIG. 11 is an exploded, perspective view from a rearward direction ofthe alternative embodiment of the external trim component of FIGS. 1-4showing a mask inside the external trim component.

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the alternative embodiment of theexternal trim component of FIG. 7 with the indicium configured as a logoas well as a keyless entry pad, both shown in an illuminated state.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a vehicle having an alternativeembodiment of an external trim component wherein the indicium isconfigured as a safety light.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 13, wherein the indiciumis configured as a logo.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 13, wherein the indiciumis configured as a puddle light.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 15, wherein the indiciumis configured as another type of puddle light.

FIGS. 17A and 17B are exemplary flowcharts of methods for producing asubstrate, a finish, and a mask of any of the several embodiments of thetrim component with concealed indicium.

FIG. 18 an exploded, perspective view of a vehicular door handlecomprising an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged, perspective view of a portion of the vehiculardoor handle of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a clothes dryer comprising analternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a 7-segment display assembly comprisingan alternative embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Referring now the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle 10 with anexemplary vehicular trim component 20 with a concealed indiciumaccording to the invention. The trim component 20 can be adapted todisplay indicia or other markings when the indicia or other markings areilluminated. When the indicia or other markings are not illuminated,they are completely undetectable by an observer, and the vehicular trimcomponent 10 has an appearance identical to a trim component without anyindicia or visual markings. As a result, the markings are hidden whilenot in use and do not detract from the physical appearance of thevehicle 10, and the trim component 20 is captivating and aestheticallypleasing when the markings are illuminated.

As utilized herein, the term “indicium” refers to any sort of markingthat can be visually observed. Examples of indicia include, but are notlimited to, logos, numerical and textual characters, symbols, designs,images, and pictures. An exemplary design can be a frit, which iscommonly found on automotive glass and comprises a solid, opaque line orband and parallel lines of progressively smaller opaque dots forcreating the illusion of a gradual fade from opaque to transparent. Theindicia can be communicative, functional, decorative, interactive, or acombination thereof.

As utilized herein, the term “trim component” can refer to any componentlocated on the exterior or interior surface of the vehicle. The vehiclecan be an automobile or other type of motor powered vehicle, such as amotorcycle, a scooter, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), a snowmobile, awave runner, a jet ski, or a boat. The trim component can be decorative,functional, or a combination thereof. Examples of exterior trimcomponents include, but are not limited to, body side moldings;spoilers; door handles; license plate frames; hood, side, and brakelouvers; truck caps and covers; and bars, such as a lighting bar abovethe license plate and a bar for mounting a center high mount stop light(CHMSL). Additionally, the trim component can be adapted to providelighting under the vehicle hood, hood cosmetic lighting, truck bedlighting, and flashing, strobe, or message lighting for emergencyvehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cruisers. Otherexamples of trim components include numerous custom accessoriestypically added to the vehicle 10 by the vehicle owner or a specialisthired by the vehicle owner as compared to the manufacturer of thevehicle. Examples of interior trim components include, but are notlimited to interior door handles, bezels for interior door handles,instrument clusters, gauges, odometer and speedometer displays, warninglamps, shifting mechanism position indicator, radio controls/knobs,climate control displays and controls, cruise control displays andcontrols, steering wheel mounted accessory controls (i.e., radio andcruise control controls), interior vehicle badging (e.g., on instrumentpanel, door panels, steering wheel), accessory lighting, identificationlabels (e.g., for cup holders, power outlet covers, shift knobs, glovebox door), visor lighting, and LCD or other types of flat paneldisplays, such as displays for sound systems, global positioningsystems, and vehicular imaging systems. Additionally, the trim componentcan be adapted to provide trunk interior lighting, safety lighting on aninterior surface of the door that illuminate when the door is opened,and headliner trim lighting, such as task, ambient, and mood lighting.

The trim component is not limited to vehicular trim components or usewith vehicles. The invention as described herein can also be used innon-automotive applications, including those having control mechanismsfor operation by the user and would benefit aesthetically by beingconcealed or hidden while not in use. Examples of such devices include,but are not limited to, appliances such as microwave ovens, clotheswashers and dryers, ranges, stovetops, ovens, countertop kitchenappliances, and lawn and garden appliances, such as trimmers, edgers,blowers, snow blowers, and lawn mowers; audio and visual entertainmentdevices, such as stereo components, televisions, stationary and portablevideo game consoles, portable music players including MP3 players, CDplayers, and radios; portable personal computers including laptops andpersonal digital assistants (PDAs); remote controls; and calculators.The invention can also be utilized for non-interactive displays, such ashouse or building address numbers, advertisement signs, product displaysin stores, and open/closed signs for businesses. Other examples ofexterior house components suitable for use with the invention includesoffits and soffit inserts (e.g. for concealing holiday or otherdecorative lighting), garage door panels, rain gutters, fencing andrailings, and solar panel covers. The invention can also be employed inthe interior of the home, such as with staircase hand rails andbaseboards. Additionally, the invention can be incorporated with homesecurity systems to conceal interior and/or exterior security cameras.Furthermore, it is also contemplated that the invention can be utilizedwith office furniture.

In general, the invention can be employed in numerous applications, onlya few of which are described herein for brevity. The examples listedabove are provided for exemplary purposes only and are not intended tolimit the invention in any manner. The embodiments of the inventiondescribed below are for illustrative purposes only with respect to anautomobile exterior trim component, with it being understood that theinvention can also be employed in other applications, such as thosedescribed above.

The exemplary vehicular trim component 20 shown in FIG. 1 can be in theform of a license plate lighting bar positioned above a mountinglocation 12 for a license plate at a rear end of the vehicle 10. Thetrim component 20 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 2-7, and thesefigures illustrate elements of the trim component 20 related to theinvention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the vehicularcomponent art that the trim component 20 can comprise other elementsthat relate to other functions of the trim component 20.

FIG. 2 illustrates the trim component 20 in a non-illuminated state,wherein the trim component 20 appears as if it does not have any type ofindicium thereon. However, when the trim component 20 is illuminated, anindicium 22 in an illuminated state can be viewed by an observer, asshown in FIG. 3. The exemplary indicium 22 of FIG. 3 can be a logocomprising textual characters and a design, and FIG. 4 illustratesanother exemplary indicium 22 in the form of a turn signal. The indicium22 can be preferably sized so that it can be viewed from a reasonabledistance and can be positioned in any suitable location on the trimcomponent 20.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-6A, a first embodiment of the trim component 20comprises a substrate 30 having an external surface 26 and an internalsurface 28. The substrate has a finish layer 32 on the external surface26, and a mask 34, which defines the indicium 22, and an illuminationsource 36 of the trim component 20 are located on a side of thesubstrate 30 facing the inside surface 28. In this application, theterms “forward” and “rearward” refer to orientations towards and awayfrom, respectively, the vehicle 10 when the trim component 20 is mountedto the vehicle 10 or, more generically, to the sides of the substrate 30closer to and farther away from, respectively, the illumination source36. For example, the external surface 26 can be on the forward side ofthe substrate 30, and the internal surface 28 can be on the rearwardside of the substrate 30. The substrate 30 of the exemplary trimcomponent 20 of the present embodiment comprises a face 40 and pairs ofopposing side walls 42 and upper and lower walls 44 extending rearwardfrom and generally orthogonally relative to the face 40.

The substrate 30 provides a base for the trim component 20 and,according to one embodiment, can be made of polymeric material.Exemplary polymeric materials include silicone and nylon. Alternatively,the substrate 30 can be made of glass or any other suitable material.For example, the substrate 30 can be at least partially made of aconductive material whose optical characteristics, such as opacity,change when an electrical charge is applied thereto. The substrate 30can comprise any suitable wall thickness, which can be the distancebetween the external surface 26 and the internal surface 28, to renderthe substrate 30 rigid or flexible depending on the selectedcharacteristics for the trim component 20. For example, the substrate 30can be in the form of a flexible film. Additionally, the substrate 30according to one embodiment of the invention can be translucent orsufficiently transparent such that the substrate 30 transmits lightwithout significant blurring or distortion. Further, the substrate 30can be made of a clear material tinted to give a selected visual effect,such as a smoky or amber appearance, to achieve a selected color, toachieve a selected light color output, or to hide electronics, which arediscussed in more detail below.

The finish layer 32 on the forward side of the substrate 30 conceals themask 34 and the illumination source 36 when the illumination source 36is not illuminated and provides the trim component 20 with a selectedexternal appearance. Additionally, the finish layer 32 can besubstantially opaque when viewed from the forward side of the trimcomponent 20 to conceal the illumination source 36, the mask 34, or anyother components on the rearward side of the finish layer 32 when theillumination source 36 is not illuminated. However, the finish layer 32transmits light generated from the illumination source 36 on therearward side thereof so that an observer can view light from theillumination source 36 and thereby view the indicium 22 when theillumination source 36 is in an illuminated state. Further, the finishlayer 32 hides the illumination source 36 and the mask 34 when theillumination source 36 is in a non-illuminated state and thereby givesthe trim component 20 an appearance identical to a trim componentwithout an indicium. According to one embodiment of the invention, thefinish layer 32 can be selected so that the appearance of the trimcomponent 20 can be similar to the appearance of portions of the vehicle10 adjacent to the trim component 20; therefore, the finish layer 32enables the trim component 10 to effectively “blend in” with adjacentportions of the vehicle 10 when the illumination source 36 is notilluminated to create a selected aesthetic appearance.

In addition to providing selected optical characteristics, the finishlayer 32 can be texturized to create selected visual and tactilecharacteristics. For example, the textured finish can create a selectedlight output, such as by filtering or diffusing light from theillumination source 36. Furthermore, the textured finish can have atexture different than the texture of the adjacent areas of the vehicle10 so that an observer can identify and differentiate the trim component20 from the rest of the vehicle 10 when the trim component 20 otherwise“blends in” with the vehicle 10.

The finish layer 32 can be fabricated of any material(s) and can haveany form suitable to impart the optical characteristics described above.The selected optical characteristics of the finish layer 32, such aslight transmissivity, can be controlled by selective control of finishproperties such as chemical composition, color, applied thickness, andthe like. The wavelength of the light emitted by the illumination source36 will also control the transmissivity of the finish layer 32.

According to one embodiment, the finish layer 32 can be a coatingapplied to the substrate 30. Exemplary coating materials include, butare not limited to paints, including metallic paints, such as GhostChrome® paint available from Alsa Corporation. Other suitable paintsinclude automotive and non-automotive grade paints, which can be appliedwith a spraying process. The paint can be applied in accordance with theparticular thickness required to achieve the selected opticalcharacteristics for the finish layer 32 and to avoid excessivedeposition of the paint. Optionally, tint can be added to the paint toachieve a selected color, such as to match the trim component 20 to thevehicle 10, and the paint can be coated with a protective clear coat,which can also be tinted to achieve a selected color. The coating canalso be in the form of a metal, such as aluminum or chromium, depositedonto the trim component 20 utilizing any suitable metal depositionprocess.

Alternatively, the finish layer 32 can comprise a separate componentmade of or coated with a material having the characteristics describedabove. For example, the finish layer 32 can be a thin film made of asuitable material, such as a polymeric material or a fabric material,laid on the substrate 30 to provide a selected cosmetic appearance andto impart the selected optical characteristics for the trim component20. The film can be a solid color or can include a pattern or image.Another exemplary process for applying a film to the substrate 30 can bea hydrographic process in which a film having a selected appearance,such as a simulated carbon fiber appearance, is floated on liquid, andthe substrate 30 can be dipped into the liquid such that the filmattaches to the substrate 30 when the substrate 30 is removed from theliquid. Alternatively, the film can be insert molded with the substrate30. In this process, the film can be inserted into a mold cavity, andthen the mold can be closed for injection of material to form thesubstrate 30. The film and the substrate 30 become a single component,with the film functioning as a cosmetic outer skin of the substrate 30.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the finish layer 32can be integrated with the substrate 30. For example, the substrate 30can be molded of a polymer having a selected color, and the wallthickness of the substrate 30 can be selected to achieve the opticalcharacteristics required of the finish layer 32. Thus, the substrate 30in this case functions both as the base for the trim component 20 and asthe finish layer 32 for the trim component 20.

The mask 34 comprises a masked portion 46 and an unmasked portion 48that transmits more light than the masked portion 46 and defines theindicium 22. The finish extends across both the masked portion 46 andthe unmasked portion 48 to conceal visible differences between themasked portion 46 and the unmasked portion 48 when the illuminationsource 36 is not illuminated. Thus, the indicium 22 is not visuallydiscernible when the illumination source is in the non-illuminatedstate. In the current embodiment, the mask 34 can be designed so thatthe unmasked portion 48 can be aligned with the face 40 of the substrate30, but it is within the scope of the invention for the unmasked portion48 to be located anywhere on the mask 34 corresponding to any locationof the substrate 30. Furthermore, the mask 34 is illustrated in thefigures as being applied to the internal surface 28 of the substrate 30;however, the mask 34 can be located on the external surface 26 of thesubstrate 30 or in any other suitable location of the trim component 20.

According to one embodiment, the masked portion 46 can be black toensure that light from the illumination source 36 located on therearward side of the mask 34 only passes through the unmasked portion48, which can be generally translucent, transparent, or hollow (i.e., anopening or aperture). As a result, when the illumination source 36 isilluminated, light shines through the unmasked portion 48, the substrate30, and the finish layer 32 to render the indicium 22 visible to theobserver, as shown in FIG. 6A. Alternatively, the opacities of themasked and unmasked portions 46, 48 can be selected so that the lightshines through both the masked and unmasked portions 46, 48 but atdifferent intensities so that the indicium 22 can be visuallydiscernible. The unmasked portion 48 can optionally be colored so thatthe light that shines therethrough is similarly colored to give theindicium 22 a selected appearance.

The mask 34 can be made of any materials(s) and have any form suitableto create the masked portion 46 and the unmasked portion 48. The mask 34can be, for example, a separate component made of an opaque material,such as a polymeric material or a fabric, with the unmasked portion 48formed by material removed therefrom, or the mask 34 can be a separatecomponent with an opaque coating thereon. Alternatively, the mask 34 canbe a coating, such as paint, applied to the substrate 30 or the finishlayer 32, or the mask 34 can be a film mounted to the substrate 30 orthe finish layer 32 by an adhesive or the like. The mask 34 can also beformed integrally with the substrate 30, such as by removing materialfrom the substrate 30 to form thin walled portions that allow light topass through when backlit by the illumination source 36 or by moldingthe substrate 30 with a mold having a design that incorporates the thinwalled portions. In these examples, the thin walled portions form theunmasked portion 48 of the mask 34.

Many different methods can be employed for manufacturing the mask 34.For example, the mask 34 can be applied with printing processes, such asscreen printing processes (e.g. silk screening), where ink or othermaterial can be passed through a screen to a surface, or printing padprocesses, where ink or other material can be transferred from an inkpad to a surface using a stamp. In screen printing and printing padprocesses, the screen and the pad are designed in accordance with theindicium 22. Alternatively, the mask 34 can be produced with a two shotmolding process, wherein multiple resins can be injected into a singlemold to create the masked and unmasked portions 46, 48. In a relatedprocess, insert/over molding, a solid clear component can be insertedinto a mold, and opaque material, such as resin, can be injected aroundthe clear component. The portions of the clear component that are notcovered by the opaque material form the unmasked portion 48, and theopaque material forms the masked portion 46. Alternatively, the mask 34can be made by molding a single component, which can be the substrate30, as described above, or a component separate from the substrate 30,having portions with walls that are thin relative to the rest of themolding to form the unmasked portion 48.

Other methods, such as laser etching and CNC machining processes, forexample, involve removing material to form the unmasked portion 48. Inlaser etching, an opaque coating, such as paint, can be applied to thesubstrate 30 or a separate structural component to form the maskedportion 46, and a laser removes the paint to form the unmasked portion48. CNC machining processes are well-known processes that can be used toremove, such as by cutting or milling, material from a component to formthe unmasked portion 48. The material can be completely removed to formthe unmasked portion 48 or can be sufficiently thinned to allow light topass through when the illumination source 36 is illuminated.

The illumination source 36 can be positioned on the rearward side of thesubstrate 30, the finish layer 32, and the mask 34 and generates lightthat transmits through the unmasked portion 48 of the mask 34, thesubstrate 30, and the finish layer 32 to provide a visible distinctionbetween the masked portion 46 and the unmasked portion 48 of the mask 34and thereby render the indicium 22 visually discernable to the observer.The illumination source 36 can be mounted to the trim component 20 orcan be mounted to an outer surface of the vehicle 10 behind the trimcomponent 20. The illumination source 36 can be any suitable lightgenerating device, including, but not limited to, one or more lightemitting diodes (LED), organic light emitting diodes (OLED),electroluminescent sources (e.g. light pads), incandescent light bulbs,fluorescent light bulbs, neon lights, and lasers. Another example of anillumination source is a display screen, such as a liquid crystaldisplay (LCD) or plasma display. Further, the illumination source 36 cancomprise light pipes and fiber optics that receive light from a remotelight source and distribute the light. Additionally, the illuminationsource 36 can be white or colored and can comprise multiple lightsources of differing colors.

The illumination source 36 can be connected to an electrical system ofthe vehicle 10, and can remain continuously in an illuminated state, oradapted to alternate between the illuminated state and thenon-illuminated state in response to one or more conditions of thevehicle 10 or its environment. For example, the illumination source 36can be adapted to illuminate when the user actuates the ignition,actuates a turn signal switch, brakes, accelerates, actuates a remotefob for a keyless entry system, touches an entry handle, or when anobserver is within a predetermined distance from the vehicle 10.Further, the illumination source 36 can be voice activated by the user.Optionally, the illumination source 36 can operate in a plurality ofillumination states, wherein the intensity of the light from theillumination source 36 can be different for each illumination state. Forexample, the illumination states can comprise a standby illuminationstate wherein the intensity of the light from the illumination source 36can be less than during an active illumination state.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the illuminationsource 36 can be adapted to form the mask 34. For example, anelectroluminescent pad can be shaped according to the indicium 22, or acoating can be applied to the pad to effectively create a mask orstencil on the pad and define areas through which light can pass.Alternatively, a plurality of LEDs can be configured in a shapecorresponding to the indicium 22. According to another embodiment of theinvention, optics, such as light pipes and fiber optics, thateffectively form the mask 34 can be molded in the substrate 30. Theoptics collect light from the illumination source 36 and project thelight in a pattern corresponding to the indicium 22.

The trim component 20 can further comprise electronics (not shown), suchas switches and sensors for receiving input from the user. For example,the trim component 20 can comprise a membrane switch, or capacitance orfield effect sensors, that generate a signal upon actuation thereof bythe user. Furthermore, the electronics can comprise the aforementioneddisplay screen, which can be used, for example, in conjunction with aglobal positioning system and/or a computer in the vehicle 10. Anexample of a trim component in the form of a door handle employing suchelectronics is described below with respect to FIG. 12.

As described above, when the illumination source 36 is in thenon-illuminated state, the trim component 20 has an appearancesubstantially identical to a trim component without an indicium, asshown in FIG. 2. When the illumination source 36 is in the illuminatedstate, light from the illumination source 36 transmits through theunmasked portion 48 of the mask 34 while less or no light transmitsthrough the masked portion 46, as depicted in FIG. 6A. The light thatshines through the unmasked portion 48 also transmits through the face40 of the substrate 30 and the finish layer 32 on the external surface26 of the substrate 30 so that the observer can perceive the indicium22, as illustrated in FIG. 3 or 4. Consequently, the finish layer 32hides the mask 34 and thereby the indicium 22 when in thenon-illuminated state, and the indicium 22 is not only viewable, but hasan attractive appearance when in the illuminated state.

A vehicle 110 with a second embodiment of a trim component 120 accordingto the invention is illustrated in FIG. 7, and the trim component 120 isshown in further detail in FIGS. 8-11, where components similar to thoseof the first embodiment are identified with like numerals in the form1XX, where XX is the numerical identifier of the components for thefirst embodiment. The second embodiment trim component 120 can be avehicular door handle mounted to an exterior surface of a door 114 ofthe vehicle 110.

FIG. 8 illustrates the trim component 120 in a non-illuminated state,wherein the trim component 120 appears as if it does not have any typeof indicium thereon. However, when the trim component 120 isilluminated, an indicium 122 in an illuminated state can be viewed by anobserver, as shown in FIG. 9. The exemplary indicium 122 of FIG. 9 canbe a logo comprising textual characters and a design.

Referring additionally to FIGS. 10 and 11, the trim component 120 in theform of the door handle comprises a handle base 150, a handle cap 160removably mounted to the handle base 150, and a bezel 162 mounted on thedoor 114 adjacent the handle base 150 and the handle cap 160. It will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the vehicular component art thatthe trim component 120 can comprise other elements that relate to otherfunctions of the door handle. Exemplary door handles are disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/710,806, which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

The handle base 150 can be mounted to an external surface of the door114 and comprises a pivot mount 152 at one end thereof for pivotallymounting the handle base 150 to the door 114 and a latch actuator 154 atan opposite end 152. The pivot mount 152 and the latch actuator 154 arepositioned inside the door 114 such that they are not visible from theexterior of the vehicle 110. The latch actuator 154 can be operativelycoupled to a door latch (not shown) in any suitable manner, anddisplacement of the latch actuator 154 during pivotal movement of thehousing body 150 about the pivot mount 152 releases the door latch sothat the user can open the door 114 and enter the vehicle 110.

The handle cap 160 can be mounted to a forward surface of the handlebase 150 to provide a selected external appearance to the trim component120. When the user grasps the trim component 120 to pivot the handlebase 150 and release the door latch, the user grasps both the handlebase 150 and the handle cap 160. Similar to the trim component 20 of thefirst embodiment, the handle cap 160 comprises a substrate 130 with afinish 132 on an external surface 126 and a mask 134 on an internalsurface 128. The trim component 120 further comprises an illuminationsource 136 located between the handle cap 160 and the handle base 150.The substrate 130, the finish 132, the mask 134, and the illuminationsource 136 are similar to the corresponding components of the firstembodiment and function in the same manner with respect to the indicium122 and its visibility to an observer.

According to one embodiment, the handle cap 160 can be removably mountedto the handle base 150 and can be exchanged with a replacement handlecap 160 having a different indicium 122 thereon. Because the handle cap160 can be replaced, the user can personalize the trim component 120with a personalized handle cap having a personalized indicium on thecorresponding mask. Furthermore, the manufacture and assembly of thetrim component 120 can be facilitated by the replaceable nature of thehandle cap 160; the handle cap 160 can be the only part of the trimcomponent 120 that needs to be custom made for a particular make ormodel of vehicle. When replacing the handle cap 160, the entire handlecap 160 can be removed and exchanged. Alternatively, if the mask 134 isnot integral with the substrate 130, then only the mask 134 has to beremoved and exchanged.

Optionally, the indicium 122 can be integrated with a keypad of akeyless entry system, as shown in FIG. 12. Exemplary vehicular doorhandles with such a keypad are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No.60/522,663 and in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0031025,which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Theindicium 122 comprises the keypad, which has individual keys 170 thatare touched by a user in a predetermined sequence to unlock a lockmechanism (not shown) of the keyless entry system so that the user cangrasp and pull the trim component 120 to release the door latch. Thekeys 170 provide a visual indicator that identifies the location(s) onthe trim component 120 that the user must touch to operate the keylessentry system. The keys 170 can be associated with electronics in theform of a switch or sensor, such as a membrane switch, a capacitancesensor, or a field effect sensor, positioned behind the keys 170 andcapable of sensing the presence of the user's finger when the usertouches the keys 170. Thus, when the user touches the keys 170 of thetrim component, the electronics detect the presence of the user'sfinger, and when the user touches the keys 170 in the predeterminedsequence, the electronics operably communicates with the lock mechanismto unlock the door. The keys 170 are viewable by the user when they arein the illuminated state, as illustrated in FIG. 12, and areadvantageously not discernable when in the non-illuminated state.Alternatively, the keys 170 can be located on an escutcheon positionedbehind the handle base 150 and the handle cap 160 or on an externalpanel of the door 114. The concept of utilizing the indicium 122 as avisual indicator that identifies one or more locations on the trimcomponent 120 that a user must touch for activating electronics, such asthe above mentioned switches and sensors, can be employed forapplications other than keyless entry systems.

While the second embodiment trim component 120 has been described withrespect to a strap-type door handle, the trim component 120 is notlimited to such a door handle. The trim component 120 can comprise anysuitable type of door handle, such as paddle handles and other types ofhandles known to one of ordinary skill in the vehicular component art.

Examples of other embodiments of trim components with concealed indiciumaccording to the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 13-16. Componentssimilar to those of the first embodiment are identified with likenumerals in the form 2XX, where XX is the numerical identifier of thecomponents for the first embodiment. FIGS. 13-16 show a vehicle 210 witha trim component 220 in the form of a bar integrated into side doors 214of the vehicle 210. In FIG. 13, an indicium 222 functions as a safetyside light that increases the visibility of the vehicle 210 when in theilluminated state, and the indicium in FIG. 14 can be configured as alogo. Additionally, the indicium 222 of FIGS. 13 and 14 can alsofunction as a turn signal indicator that flashes when the driveractuates a control lever inside the vehicle 210. In FIGS. 15 and 16, theindicium 222 can be configured as a security or puddle light thatilluminates a ground area 272 adjacent the vehicle 210 when in theilluminated state. The illuminated state can be achieved upon actuationof a remote keyless entry fob or by any other suitable event. Theindicium 222 of FIG. 15 can be a single, elongated puddle light, whilethe indicium 222 of FIG. 22 comprises a plurality of shorterdisconnected segments that together form the puddle light.

The relative positioning of the substrate 30, the finish layer 32, andthe mask 34 of the trim components 20, 120 described herein can bealtered in any reasonable fashion. For example, the mask 34 can bepositioned forward of the substrate 30, or the finish layer 32 can bepositioned between the substrate 30 and the mask 34. Additionally, thefinish layer 32 can be located on the internal surface 28 of thesubstrate, and the mask can be applied to the finish layer 32.Furthermore, the trim component 20, 120 according to the invention doesnot have to include the mask 34. For example, light from theillumination source 36 can be transmitted through the entire substrate30. Alternatively, the trim component can comprise an illuminationsource that focuses light on certain regions of the trim component. Forexample, an LCD display positioned behind the substrate 30 includes itsown focused illumination source, and the LCD display becomes visiblethrough the substrate 30 and the finish layer 32 when in the poweredstate, yet can be concealed by the finish layer 32 when not powered.

Exemplary flow charts of methods 300 for producing the combinationsubstrate, finish, and mask of any of the embodiments of the trimcomponent according to the invention are shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. Themethod 300 illustrated in FIG. 17A begins by applying the mask 34 to thesubstrate 30 in step 302. The mask 34 can be applied to the front sideof the substrate 30 or to the rear side of the substrate 30. Accordingto one embodiment, the mask 34 can be applied by positioning a stencilin the form of the indicium 22 on the substrate 30, spraying orotherwise applying an opaque coating, such as a black paint, to thesubstrate 30, and then removing the stencil. Next, the finish layer 32can be applied to the substrate 30 on the side opposite the mask 34 instep 304. According to one embodiment, the finish layer 32 can beapplied by coating the substrate 30 with a paint, such as theaforementioned Ghost Chrome. In the case where the mask 34 can beapplied to the rear side of the substrate 30, the finish layer 32 can beapplied to the front side of the substrate 30. After the finish layer 32is applied, a protective coating, such as a clear coat, can optionallybe applied to the finish layer 32 in step 306. In the method 300 of FIG.17A, steps 302 and 304 can occur in reverse order.

The method 300 described above produces the substrate 30 with the finishlayer 32 and the mask 34 on opposite sides thereof. Alternatively, themethod 300 can be altered as shown in FIG. 17B to produce the substrate30 with the finish layer 32 and the mask 34 on the same side of thesubstrate 30. To begin the method 300 in FIG. 17B, the finish layer 32can be applied to the substrate 30, such as on the rear side of thesubstrate 30, in step 310. According to one embodiment, the finish layer32 can be applied to the rear side of the substrate 30 by coating therear side of the substrate 30 with paint, such as the aforementionedGhost Chrome. Next, the mask 34 can be applied to the finish layer 32 instep 312. According to one embodiment, the mask 34 can be applied bypositioning a stencil in the form of the indicium 22 on the rear side ofthe finish layer 32, spraying or otherwise applying an opaque coating,such as a black paint, to the finish layer 32, and then removing thestencil.

The vehicular trim components with a concealed indicium according to theinvention advantageously conceal indicia and an illumination source whenin the non-illuminated state, and provide a captivating appearance tothe indicia when in the illuminated state. As a result, indicia that donot contribute to the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle are hiddenwhen not in use. Additionally, the visually attractive indicia canfunction as effective advertising media and provide a vehicle owner withcreative options for personalizing the vehicle.

Yet another embodiment of the trim component is illustrated in FIGS. 18and 19. The embodiment of FIGS. 18 and 19 shares many of the features ofthe previously described embodiments, which will not be described indetail herein unless necessary for a complete understanding of theinvention. FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary exploded view of a doorhandle assembly 310 having an overlying selectively light transmissiveindicia coating 322. The indicia coating 322 can incorporate a pattern324, such as alphanumeric characters or symbols, which is invisible whenlight, such as sunlight, impinges on the door handle assembly 310, butvisible when backlit. The indicia coating 322 can be incorporated intothe door handle assembly 310 so that, when the indicia are invisible,the door handle assembly 310 seamlessly blends in with the rest of thevehicle to which it is attached, as hereinafter described.

The door handle assembly 310 can comprise a substrate in the form of agrip cover 318 that mates with a handle housing 312 pivotally mounted toa vehicle door (not shown) and operatively coupled with a door latch(not shown) located inside the door. Together, the grip cover 318 andthe handle housing 312 can form a grip that can be grasped by a user.The door handle assembly 310 can further include an illumination sourceholder 314 mounted to the handle housing 312 and sandwiched between thehousing 312 and the grip cover 318. The illumination source holder 314can support an illumination source assembly 316 comprising a pluralityof illumination elements 330 to provide backlighting to the pattern 324.The illumination elements 330 can be any suitable source of light suchas light emitting diodes (LEDs) that can be illuminated individually, ingroups, or all at once. An illumination source assembly wire harness 332can extend through the handle housing 312 to be coupled with the vehiclepower and control systems (not shown), for controlling the operation ofone or more of the illumination elements 330.

The door handle assembly 310 can also comprise a bezel 320 mounted tothe vehicle door adjacent to and coextensive with the grip cover 318.

The indicia coating 322 can comprise a specialty paint or finish thatcan be applied to the grip cover 318 through a coating process, such asa spray process, hydrographic or dip process, or other suitable coatingprocess known in the art. The specialty paint or finish can comprise aselectively light transmissive coating that inherently renders thepattern 324 invisible in bright light until the illumination sourceassembly 316 is activated to backlight the pattern 324 and therebyrender the pattern visible. Alternatively, the thickness of the indiciacoating 322 can be carefully controlled to provide a selected level oflight transmissivity. The indicia coating 322 can be applied in twodifferent thicknesses, the lesser thickness being associated with thepattern 324, and the greater thickness being associated with theremaining area of the coating 322.

The selected pattern 324 to be rendered visible when backlit can alsoresult from modifications of portions of the indicia coating 322 toenhance its light transmissivity associated with such pattern. Forexample, the indicia coating 322 can be removed entirely in the selectedpattern after the coating 322 has been applied over the entiresubstrate, and replaced with a more light transmissive coating. Theapplication of the indicia coating 322 can be controlled, such asthrough the use of stencils or paint masks, so that no indicia coating322 is applied over the pattern. The pattern can subsequently be coatedwith a more light transmissive coating. The indicia coating 322 can alsobe adapted to reflect light that impinges on the door handle assembly310, thereby enhancing the concealment of the indicia when not backlit.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the indicia coating 328 corresponding to theselected patterns 324 can be partially removed or incised, such as byscoring, fine crosshatching, stippling, etching, carving, and the like,to enhance its transmissivity, while maintaining the opacity or maskingcapabilities of the remaining indicia coating 322. Other characteristicsthat can be controlled to control the transmissivity of selectedpatterns in the indicia coating 322 include paint color, the color ofthe illumination elements 330, the intensity of the light emitted fromthe illumination elements 330, and the like.

The use of a specialty paint or finish as described above can eliminatethe need for a separate mask to block light from the illumination sourceassembly 316 in order to illuminate the selected characters or symbols324. A single layer serving as both a finish coat and a mask layer cansimplify the process of fabricating a door handle assembly 310 byeliminating an extra layer while producing a door handle assembly thatcan blend in with the vehicle's overall color and finish, therebyaccelerating production and reducing costs.

The invention is not limited to vehicle door handles, or to vehicles ingeneral. The invention can also be incorporated into items such asappliances. As illustrated in FIG. 20, the invention can be incorporatedinto an automatic clothes dryer 340 comprising a cabinet 344 having adoor 346 providing access to an interior drum (not shown). The clothesdryer 340 can also comprise a substrate in the form of a control panel342 mounted to an upper portion of the clothes dryer 340 and comprisinga user interface 348 according to the invention. The user interface 348can have a plurality of operational keys 356 and a display 358. Thecontrol panel 342 can also include a control knob 350 and controlbuttons 360. The knob, keys, buttons, display, and other interactivecontrol devices can provide information and control functionality to auser.

The keys 356, control knob 350 and control buttons 360 can compriseflush-mounted, soft-touch control wheels, buttons, and keys, or controlwheels, buttons, and keys utilizing sensors, such as field effectsensors or capacitance sensors, that can be activated when a user'sfinger is in the vicinity of the sensor, and which can more readilyaccommodate an indicia coating.

The control panel 342, including the user interface 348, control knob350, and control buttons 360, can be adapted with an indicia coating sothat, when the clothes dryer 340 is not in use, the control panel 342 iseffectively concealed, and when the clothes dryer 340 is in use, thecontrol panel 342, user interface 348, control knob 350, and controlbuttons 360 can be backlit, rendering them visible to a user of theappliance. It may be necessary to utilize an illumination source capableof sufficiently illuminating the control panel 342, user interface 348,control knob 350, and control buttons 360 in bright light, such asdaylight or conventional interior lighting.

The illumination source can comprise an illumination source holdersupporting an illumination source assembly comprising a plurality ofillumination elements, generally as described above. It is assumed thatconfiguration of these elements for use in an appliance control panelrather than a vehicle door handle assembly is within the abilities of aperson having an ordinary level of skill in the art.

Alternatively, the illumination source can comprise a known 7-segmentdisplay assembly 370, which provides both illumination and information.The display assembly 370 can comprise a 7-segment display console 371and an indicia coating 382. The display console 371 can comprise anenclosure 372 containing at least one illuminating 7-segment displayindicium 380, associated electronic control circuitry, powersubassemblies, and the like, coupled with the vehicle electrical systemthrough a wire harness 374 and connector 376. A substrate in the form ofa display panel 378 extending along one wall of the enclosure 372 canincorporate or overlay one or more indicia 380, such as alphanumericcharacters. The indicia coating 382 having a selected color and finishcan be applied to the display panel 378 to conceal the 7-segment displayand blend the display console 372 into adjacent body panels.Alternatively, the indicia coating 382 can be applied directly over the7-segment display indicia 380. The indicia coating 382 can incorporate aplurality of transmissive portions 384, each aligned with an indicium380, and surrounded by a mask portion 386 generally as described above.The display assembly 370 can be incorporated into a motor vehiclecomponent, an appliance, signage, signaling devices, and the like.

For components or applications in which the indicia are only observed oronly convey information, the indicia coating configurations describedabove can be utilized. However, if the indicia are to additionallyfacilitate the selection of a functionality, such as a keypad, theconfiguration can incorporate one or more functionality switches, suchas a field effect sensor, a capacitance sensor, a pressure pad, amulti-touch screen, and the like.

The control panel can be configured with an illumination source for eachselectable control. Utilizing, for example, a field effect sensoradapted so that touching any part of the control panel will actuate theillumination sources, specific indicia associated with each selectablecontrol will be visible and can be selectively actuated by the user.Individual indicia can also be actuated by a field effect sensor, amulti-touch display panel, and the like. The control panel electronicscan be adapted so that, after the user has completed the actuation ofcontrols, the indicia and illumination sources not associated with theselected controls can be automatically switched off. Informationalindicia associated with a selected operation or function, such as watertemperature, laundry load weight, selected wash cycle, and the like, cancontinue to be illuminated. A 7-segment display assembly may beparticularly well suited for displaying such information. Thus, forexample, during use of the appliance, only those indicia associated witha selected operation or function will remain illuminated. Those indicianot associated with a selected operation or function will be concealed,and the overlying finish layer will “blend in” with the adjoiningsurfaces.

The selectively light transmissive indicia coating as described hereincan also be utilized for brake lights, parking lights, turn indicators,and the like. The indicia coating can be adapted for lighttransmissivity in areas corresponding to the brake lights, parkinglights, turn indicators, etc. the remainder of the indicia coating canbe opaque, to serve as a mask portion. In ambient light, the brakelights, parking lights, turn indicators, etc. will be concealed behindthe indicia coating, with the entire assembly having a color and finishblending in with the color and a finish of adjacent portions of thevehicle. However, when braking, using the turn indicators, or actuatingthe braking lights, light will be transmitted through the transmissivityareas.

The indicia coating can be used with lock/unlock indicators incorporatedinto the vehicle door or other panels. When the door is unlocked, eitherwith a key, a wireless control such as a key fob, or a code-basedkeyless entry system, a light element can be briefly activated toindicate the locked/unlocked condition; when deactivated, the lightelement can be concealed behind the indicia coating, which will blend inwith adjacent panels.

Other applications can include dome lights, supplemental exterior arealighting, license plate illumination, and the like. The trim componentdescribed herein can comprise a part of other vehicles, such asaircraft, watercraft, motorcycles, personal watercraft such as Sea-Doos®and Waverunners®, all-terrain vehicles, and the like. The trim componentcan also comprise a part of any other appliance, such as clotheswashers, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, laundry pedestals, andportable appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, countertop mixers,blenders, coffeemakers, radios, music systems, and food processors.Virtually any actuatable apparatus that incorporates informationaldisplays or controls can incorporate the trim component, as generallydescribed herein. The use of the selectively light transmissive indiciacoating can enhance the styling and appearance of such apparatus byconcealing indicia and illumination sources until the illuminationsource is actuated, and the indicia are revealed. The use of a singlelayer that can be adapted as both a mask portion and an unmasked portioncan simplify the fabrication and finishing of the apparatus, enhance theappearance of the apparatus, and reduce the costs of fabrication.

While the invention has been specifically described in connection withcertain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that thisis by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of theappended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art willpermit.

1. A component of an actuatable apparatus, the component comprising: asubstrate having an external surface defining a selected area; anillumination source actuatable between an illuminated state and anon-illuminated state, and positioned behind the selected area; and anopaque indicia coating applied over the selected area, a portion of theopaque indicia coating defining a pattern having a greater lighttransmissivity than the portion of the opaque indicia coating notcomprising the pattern; wherein the pattern is invisible when theillumination source is in the non-illuminated state, and visible whenthe illumination source is in the illuminated state and transmits lightthrough the pattern.
 2. The component of claim 1 wherein the opaqueindicia coating is a paint.
 3. The component of claim 1 wherein theopaque indicia coating is a metallic paint.
 4. The component of claim 1wherein the opaque indicia coating includes a tint so that the componentcan blend in with the finish of the actuatable apparatus on which thecomponent is mounted.
 5. The component of claim 1 wherein the opaqueindicia coating is applied over the selected area using a hydrographicprocess.
 6. The component of claim 1 wherein the pattern is defined byremoving the opaque indicia coating associated with the pattern from theselected area.
 7. The component of claim 1 wherein the pattern isdefined by applying the opaque indicia coating over the selected areawithout applying it to the pattern.
 8. The component of claim 1 whereinthe pattern is defined by applying over the selected area a selectivelylight transmissive coating that inherently renders the pattern invisiblein bright light when the illumination source is not actuated, andvisible when the illumination source is actuated to backlight thepattern.
 9. The component of claim 1 wherein the pattern is defined byapplying the opaque indicia coating over the selected area in twodifferent thicknesses, a lesser thickness being associated with thepattern, and a greater thickness being associated with the remainingarea not comprising the pattern.
 10. The component of claim 1 whereinthe pattern is defined by selectively incising the opaque indiciacoating to enhance its transmissivity.
 11. The component of claim 10wherein the incising comprises one of scoring, crosshatching, stippling,etching, and carving.
 12. The component of claim 11 wherein the incisingis performed by a laser-etching process.
 13. The component of claim 1wherein the illumination source comprises at least one light sourceselected from the group consisting of: a light-emitting diode, anincandescent light bulb, a fluorescent light bulb, an electroluminescentlight source, a neon light, a light pipe received from a remote lightsource, a fiber optic-received light, a liquid-crystal display, a plasmadisplay, a 7-segment display indicium, and a laser.
 14. The component ofclaim 13 wherein the light source is a display screen, and the displayscreen is hidden by the opaque indicia coating when the display screenis in the non-illuminated state.
 15. The component of claim 13 whereinat least one of a 7-segment display indicium overlain by the opaqueindicia coating so that the 7-segment display indicium is visible whenin an illuminated state, and invisible when in a non-illuminated state.16. The component of claim 1 wherein the selected area comprises controlswitches, and the control switches are hidden by the opaque indiciacoating when the illumination source is in the non-illuminated state.17. The component of claim 15 wherein the control switches comprise atleast one of flush-mounted, soft-touch control wheels, flush-mountedsoft-touch buttons, flush-mounted, soft-touch keys, and control wheels,buttons, and keys utilizing at least one of a field effect sensor or acapacitance sensor.
 18. The component of claim 1 wherein the pattern isat least one of a trademark, one or more alphanumeric characters, alogo, a design, a symbol, a picture, an image, an indicator, and a frit.19. The component of claim 1 wherein the actuatable apparatus comprisesa vehicle door handle.
 20. The component of claim 1 wherein theactuatable apparatus is one of an automobile, a truck, an aircraft, awatercraft, a motorcycle, a personal watercraft, and an all-terrainvehicle.
 21. The component of claim 1 wherein the actuatable apparatusis one of a clothes washer, a dishwasher, a refrigerator, a freezer, alaundry pedestal, a vacuum cleaner, a countertop mixer, a blender, acoffee maker, a radio, a music system, and a food processor.
 22. Thecomponent of claim 1, wherein the substrate is translucent.
 23. A methodof fabricating an actuatable apparatus for selectively revealing andconcealing a pattern associated with a component, the method comprising:selecting a substrate having an external surface defining a selectedarea; positioning an illumination source behind the selected area, theillumination source being actuatable between an illuminated state and anon-illuminated state; applying an opaque indicia coating over theselected area; adapting a portion of the opaque indicia coating todefine a pattern having a greater light transmissivity than a portion ofthe opaque indicia coating not comprising the pattern; and implementingat least one of actuating the illumination source into the illuminatedstate to transmit light through the pattern to reveal the pattern, andactuating the illumination source into the non-illuminated state toconceal the pattern.